Holiday Hosting Hacks

The Holiday Hacks Your Party Needs

Create a single, delicious cocktail for the evening, and prebatch it before guests arrive. Both Symon and Flay are down with bourbon-based drinks, and to keep the drinks and energy flowing all night long, Symon says to "make a big batch, and let people have a go at it." Shulson enjoys serving sangria, as it's a genius way to use up leftover wine, resolve the issue of which guest's wine to drink first (since you just dump it into a bowl or pitcher), and won't kill you in terms of price (here's where it's completely cool to use a budget to mid-priced bottle). But it might not get any more festive than Puck's Spiced Apple Cider. It's subtly sweet, fragrant, and warms you inside and out.

You don't have to compromise on quality just because you're on a budget. Dubois, who's created desserts for the most famous house in the world — The White House — has no problem serving sweets in plastic. "There's little plastic cups, really cool-looking ones with different shapes, that you can fill with a simple dessert, like chocolate mousse and fresh fruit," says Dubois. "Chocolate mousse is softly whipped cream and melted chocolate folded together, two easy ingredients," and something even the most culinary novice can handle.

While most hosts focus on decorating their home, don't forget about sprucing up your food as well with the plates it's served on, for a dramatic and memorable presentation. Puck recommends using "colorful, festive platters that spread the holiday spirit." Get creative — and green, while you're at it — and hit up your local thrift store. You'll find an assortment of affordable servingware, in various patterns and shades, to punch up any holiday spread from everyday to elegant.

Last but not least, don't forget yourself. You are the host, the guy throwing this unforgettable bash, after all. We've all been privy to hosts who get wrapped up in tending to everyone but themselves, and therefore wind up burned out and exhausted, post-party — instead of cheerful and spirited. So, if you have a little coin to spare, here's where to use it. "Hire a cleaning person, and hire a bartender," recommends Schulson. "You should be a part of your own party." We'll drink to that.